Description
Nine-year-old Thomas and his cousin Rita embark on a journey to Montana for a fossil hunting and study expedition with the Junior Scientist Club of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles. Thomas discovers a 66-million-year-old dinosaur nicknamed Thomas—one of the ten most complete T. rex skeletons in the world.
Through the eyes of Thomas and Rita, young readers learn about the T. rex and how dinosaurs lived, as well as the basics of excavation and the preparation of fossils for their public debut in the Museum’s new Dinosaur Hall, opened July 2011.
The book features vibrant watercolor paintings and actual photographs from the 2003 – 2005 excavation of Thomas, led by world-renowned paleontologist and exhibit lead curator, Dr. Luis Chiappe at the Museum’s Dinosaur Institute.
Praises for Thomas the T. rex
“This fictionalized account of the discovery of a T. rex skeleton parallels the real world discoveries that have led to a greater knowledge of the prehistoric predator that captivates young readers. Because the book goes beyond dinosaur facts to the process of inquiry, it rises above most books at this level for children.
Seeing how science works through the eyes of young observers will help elementary readers understand more about the practices of science. It can open doors to non–fiction reading for students at this level. Because the science is sound and the text developmentally appropriate, this book was named an NSTA/CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book for 2012.” — Children’s Book Council Reviewer
“Discovering the ancient remains of dinosaurs is a remarkable experience. This book gives a glimpse of such experience and a source of inspiration to children who aspire to one day find their own dinosaur.” —Dr. Luis M. Chiappe, Director of the Dinosaur Institute, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
“Thomas the T. rex is a charming, beautifully illustrated book about the discovery of one of the most scientifically important T. rex fossils ever found. Unusual among books for young audiences, it gives readers a detailed look at the process by which a dinosaur skeleton goes from a chance discovery in the field to a dramatic museum display. Thomas the T. rex is sure to delight and inform budding scientists everywhere.” — Matthew C. Lamanna, Ph.D., Assistant Curator, Carnegie Museum of Natural History
“Thomas the T. rex is filled with colorful, expressive water color paintings that perfectly illustrate the kids’ activities at the dig. This is a fascinating and inspiring book for junior scientists age 7 and up.” — Midwest Book Review
